The UK Government has set a target to achieve a Net Zero Electricity System in the UK by 2035, with an initial target of being able to achieve this for short periods by 2025. National Grid estimate that 13GW of batteries are required to ensure that energy generated by renewables can be stored when it is not required, and then used when it is and to provide power quality services as traditional generation is phased down.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and associated works are a key component of a low carbon energy system. Their batteries can store the energy being generated across the UK’s energy network by renewables, such as solar and wind farms, when demand is low so excess electricity isn’t wasted. They can then discharge this stored energy to balance the energy network when demand is high or when the wind isn’t blowing or the sun shining.  The batteries produce no emissions or pollution during normal operations so are considered to be a low carbon technology. 

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The proposal is located adjacent to Indian Queens Substation, which is part of and is operated by the National Grid. Such energy storage projects need to be sited in locations such as this where there can be a cost effective and technically viable connection into the National Grid’s transmission infrastructure. This must be able to accommodate both the import (for charging) and export of electricity at the level which can be provided by the proposed storage facility. It is proposed to connect the BESS to the nearby Indian Queens Substation, which is situated to the east of the site. The exact cable route has not yet been finalised but it is likely to run underground from the site to the substation.

The proposed battery energy storage facility would assist in providing a significant contribution to both local and national energy storage need in the timescales necessary to contribute to the UK’s progress in meeting its renewable energy targets.